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CEUD MILE FAILTE

A hundred thousand welcomes to Strathdearn

Strathdearn is the name of the area of the rural parish of Moy, Dalarossie & Tomatin, situated by the River Findhorn 15 miles south of Inverness, in the Highlands of Scotland. The Strath is approx. 22 miles long, from the headwaters at Coignafearn to Moy, and its southern limit is the Slochd Summit at 1315 ft on the A9.

The name Tomatin is known the world over for its distillery, producing unique malt whisky. The area consists of several large sporting estates, and Moy and Dalarossie each have a listed historic church and graveyard, though the former is now deconsecrated but interments do still take place. Worship at Tomatin is at the unusual corrugated iron mission Church, originally built in 19th Century for those working to build the railway and viaducts over the river and old A9 road.

The village has a new primary school and a fine Millennium project hall which was honoured by an early visit from the late Queen Mother. An outdoor covered arena has been built nearby to provide a variety of sports for all ages and we look forward to the day when we once more have an Inn and Restaurant as well as the present village shop.

There are approximately 550 residents in Strathdearn. The main employer is the distillery, otherwise there are hill farms and very good sporting opportunities for salmon fishing, deer stalking and grouse shooting, also holiday accommodation amid beautiful Highland scenery. There is a strong and growing community, much appreciated by locals and visitors alike, many of whom have come for a holiday and decided to make their retirement home here in due course.

The area has much to offer for the interest and enjoyment of walkers, including a stretch of General Wade's military road built in 18th Century between Perth and Inverness. There is also a wide variety of plant and wildlife, including golden eagles, osprey and red kites as well as red, sika and roe deer, feral goats, red squirrels, otters and both brown and blue (mountain) hares. For those with an interest in Clan history, Moy is the seat of the Mackintosh and Clan Chattan, with Jacobite connections, and a Field Sports Fair is held there each August.

Thousands of visitors hasten by in car or train or plane, little knowing what pleasure a pause here could give – wonderful peaceful surroundings, especially up the glen, with sights from earliest times and a friendly welcome from a small Highland community – just off the beaten track.

Ann Glynne-Percy, 2012

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